The Impossible Journey

The Impossible Journey by Gloria Whelan, published by HarperCollins on January 7, 2003, is a 256-page work of juvenile fiction that explores themes of family and resilience against the backdrop of historical events in Europe. The story follows siblings Marya and Georgi, who are left alone and desperate after their parents vanish one fateful Russian night in 1934. As they grapple with fear and uncertainty, a crumpled letter ignites a flicker of hope, prompting them to embark on a perilous mission to reunite their family.

Readers will find themselves immersed in the children’s dangerous quest as they navigate the challenges of escaping their city and venturing into the vast Siberian wilderness. The narrative captures the essence of their journey, highlighting the risks they face and the determination that drives them forward. This edition serves as a companion to Whelan’s earlier work, Angel on the Square, and offers a poignant exploration of the impact of military and political turmoil on family bonds.